DEGT had the lowest lost-time incident rate among large natural gas transmission companies for 2001. This marks the fourth time that DEGT has received the honor, and the second year in row.

“This award reflects the commitment and hard work of our employees and enhances the message that Duke Energy is a leader in pipeline safety,” said Theopolis Holeman, senior vice president. “It is an honor that the AGA has again recognized the high value DEGT places on the health and safety of our employees, customers and communities in which we operate.

“Our emphasis on safety grows as we strive to provide the necessary infrastructure to meet the growing demand for energy across the United States and Canada,” Holeman said.

The award was presented to DEGT earlier this week at the 2002 AGA Operations Conference in Chicago.

Duke Energy Gas Transmission is a North American leader in developing energy infrastructure and connecting major natural gas supply basins to growing markets. The company’s natural gas operations include more than 18,900 miles of interstate transmission pipeline and 240 billion cubic feet of storage capacity in Canada and the United States. More information on DEGT can be found at www.degt.duke-energy.com.

Duke Energy, a diversified multinational energy company, creates value for customers and shareholders through an integrated network of energy assets and expertise. Duke Energy manages a dynamic portfolio of natural gas and electric supply, delivery and trading businesses  -- generating revenues of more than $59 billion in 2001. Duke Energy, headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is a Fortune 100 company traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol DUK. More information about the company is available on the Internet at: www.duke-energy.com.